2009 Clarion/Register Holiday Cookbook

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About Me

I'm the working mother of a bunch of kids. I cook not only because I have to, but because I like to - experiment, create and have fun. Every holiday, birthday, or event, they all come home for mom's cooking. Since food is what we use to bring us together, I'm hoping some of my tips, techniques and misadventures can help you in the kitchen, too.

Gadget

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

When it's cold and nasty out, one of the classic comfort foods is a grilled cheese. Added to a warm soup, a grilled cheese can be a simple and quick meal. But why not add a new twist to an old favorite? This version of the basic grilled cheese uses Italian bread, fresh mozzarella cheese and some Italian meats to take it from basic and boring to an Italian version of a classic. Fresh mozzarella melts great and pepperoni and salami add the meat that makes it a meal for my hubby. For some extra flavor pop, just a sprinkle of garlic salt and a little Italian seasoning round out the dish to make an old stand by interesting again.

Italian Grilled Cheese2 T. butter or margarine4 slices Italian bread12 pepperoni slices4 thin slices ham or salami4-5 slices fresh mozzarella cheese1/4 tsp. (sprinkle) garlic salt1/8 tsp. (sprinkle) of any one of the following - Italian seasoning, oregano, basil or thyme Butter one side of each piece of bread with butter. Sprinkle garlic salt lightly on each.Preheat large non-stick skillet over medium heat for just a little bit.Lay two slices of bread butter side down in skillet. Layer pepperoni and cheese slices on bread. Sprinkle with seasoning.Top cheese with sliced ham or salami and place other bread slice on top.Cook over medium low heat for 2-3 minutes, checking often. Gently flip sandwich over and cook another 2 minutes until lightly golden.Makes 2 sandwiches. Recipe easily doubled.

*Note - In season, this is good with very thin sliced Roma tomatoes and fresh basil.